Francesco Guidolin tells Udinese they need to be “more ruthless” if they are to defeat Milan on Saturday and progress in the Europa League.

The Friulani slipped back in Serie A after their 3-2 defeat to Fiorentina on Sunday, but hope to face a tired and injury-ravaged Rossoneri side.

“We have the chance to work all week, but I’d have preferred to be in the Coppa Italia semi-final instead of Siena,” confessed the Coach.

“I suppose we have to take advantage of this, but it might not make a difference anyway, as Milan are accustomed to playing every three days.

“As for our game with Fiorentina, we did very well in the first half and the main problem was we failed to double our lead. I don’t think it was an issue of fatigue.

“We had the opportunity to go 2-0 up and damage the confidence of our opponents, but we’ve got to be stronger, nastier, more clinical and ruthless. A team like Fiorentina needs to be given the knock-out punch earlier, as they have strong players and can fight their way back into a game.

“It’s a shame that once again we threw away points on our travels, as I tried to help the squad improve their attacking mentality away from home, but we aren’t repeating the results of last season. Perhaps it’s an issue of concentration and focus.”

Zlatan Ibrahimovic is suspended for three games after slapping Napoli defender Salvatore Aronica, so misses Sunday’s encounter with Udinese.

“It is beyond doubt that Ibrahimovic is a crucial and decisive player for Milan, but I am convinced the team has many resources to draw upon,” continued Guidolin.

“In some circumstances they clung to him, but Milan are packed with champions, are the Scudetto holders and in terms of quality have the best side in Serie A. I’m sure they can push through any absence.

“I see Juventus and Milan as the favourites for the title this season.”